Before cell phones, children used to play with a makeshift, simple communication device using string and metal cans. They were able to transmit sound using this simple setup. Which statement accurately describes the energy and the medium through which the sound travels with the string and can device?

Question

Responses
A The energy is electromagnetic waves and it moves through the string.The energy is electromagnetic waves and it moves through the string.
B The energy is a mechanical wave that moves through the string.The energy is a mechanical wave that moves through the string.
C The energy is a transverse wave that moves through the air.The energy is a transverse wave that moves through the air.
D The energy is a radio wave and moves through the cans.The energy is a radio wave and moves through the cans.

Answer 1

The correct response is:

B The energy is a mechanical wave that moves through the string.

In this setup, the sound waves created by speaking into one can vibrate the can, which then transfers the vibrations through the string, allowing the sound to be transmitted to the other can. The string acts as a medium for the mechanical waves produced by the vibrations.